My name is Daiga and I am a single mother of two daughters. My eldest daughter, Eliza, is 15 years old. She has a rare genetic disease - ADNP syndrome. It is a very unique disease and we are the only ones in Latvia, except for one child in Estonia. For many years I did not know Eliza's diagnosis, because after a difficult birth and meningoencephalitis, doctors thought that all the problems were caused by it. Eliza didn't start walking on her own until she was 3 and speaking at 7, thanks to our tireless work. Her father abandoned his daughter and we receive no support. I have raised Eliza alone all these years with the help of my mum, fighting the doctors for diagnosis and rehabilitation on my own. Eliza also had Lyme disease, which affected her progress.

Unfortunately, ADNP syndrome has no cure, meaning that the brain does not produce the protein needed for nervous system development. For the last few years I have had almost no energy to fight because in our country support stops when a child becomes a teenager. So every achievement is a big struggle.

My great joy was having our youngest, Tina, 9 years ago. She has a very sensitive nervous system and cannot handle her emotions. Recently we found out that Tina has celiac disease, which also makes our life very difficult. The father of the second daughter couldn't cope with life with a special child either.....

Most of all the girls love travelling with me around Latvia and going somewhere. It is difficult, but very beautiful, because new experiences are very fulfilling for both Eliza and Tina. Due to financial difficulties we cannot go on longer trips, but the girls dream to spend a few days by the sea in warmth and have fun. I try to combine my full-time job with raising my daughters, taking them to classes and rehabilitation. Unfortunately, this has also led to health problems and depression. I would love to be able to take a few days off with my kids without thinking about my problems and have some "travel therapy".

Sincerely,

Mum Daiga

*The donation fee includes:

• Air tickets: Riga-Pafos, Paphos-Riga
• Programme for 10 days
• Petrol expenses
• Meals
• Excursions
• Entertainment